Keeping Up With The Joneses. EP. 135

In this episode, David Santiago addresses one of the biggest silent pressures in the PMU and SMP industry… the need to “look” successful.

With social media showcasing luxury lifestyles, fully booked schedules, and six-figure claims, many artists find themselves comparing their real life to someone else’s highlight reel. But how much of that success is actually real… and how much of it is just perception?

David breaks down the dangers of comparison, the trap of chasing appearances, and how trying to keep up with others can lead to poor decisions, financial stress, and even depression. He shares his personal perspective on money, discipline, and why he chooses long-term freedom over short-term validation.

This episode is a reality check for artists who feel like they’re falling behind and a reminder that true success isn’t about impressing others… it’s about building something real, sustainable, and aligned with your purpose.

If you’ve ever questioned your progress, your finances, or your path in this industry… this is the episode you need to hear.

Connect with David:

IG: @scalpsolutionsny

Web: https://www.scalpsolutionsny.com

Todays podcast is sponsored by:

Hustle Butter Deluxe – The ultimate tattoo care product trusted by artists around the world. Whether you’re an SMP artist or tattoo professional, Hustle Butter keeps the skin smooth, reduces redness, and promotes faster healing—before, during, and after the procedure. 100% vegan and packed with natural ingredients, it’s a must-have in your setup.

Ready to elevate your client experience? Visit hustlebutter.com and stock up today!

Palms Fashion – Your trusted source for professional barber, SMP and beauty supplies. Explore their extensive range of products at palmsfashioninc.com.

WAVA Water – Spark your creativity and boost your focus with WAVA, the lightly caffeinated sparkling water infused with binaural beats of sound frequency. Designed for high performers, WAVA helps you stay energized, creative, and productive — without the crash. Ready to level up your hydration? Visit drinkwava.com and experience the future of functional beverages!

Bishop SMP – Since 2008, Bishop has set the standard in the tattoo industry, and now that same quality is powering the SMP world. From the SMP Power Wand built for precision and comfort, to SMP-specific needles and pigments engineered for flawless results, Bishop SMP is trusted by artists who want to elevate their craft. Ready to level up? Visit BishopSMP.com and experience the difference.

Micropigmentation Educators – A ready-to-use SMP & PMU training platform built for serious artists. Deliver real fundamentals with zero guesswork.

Visit MPEducators.com to get started.